SALGA lambasts Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina over “disregarding the constitution” remark 

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Picture: Minister of Water and Sanitation, Penny Majodina/Google

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI 

31 March 2025- The South African Local Government Association (SALGA) said it values opportunities for intergovernmental dialogue and welcomed the recent National Water and Sanitation Indaba held on 27 and 28 March 2025. The Indaba provided a platform to confront the country’s deepening water challenges and reaffirm the importance of collaborative governance.

SALGA spokesperson, Tebogo Mosala said they commend the Republic of South Africa (RSA) president, Cyril Ramaphosa and his Deputy, Paul Mashatile, for their thoughtful and measured contributions, which reflected a clear understanding of the water sector’s complexity and the urgent need for aligned and cooperative action across all spheres of government. Mosala said their recognition of the need for inclusive engagement and sustainable solutions set the tone for meaningful discourse.

She further said, however, SALGA must express serious concern regarding statements made by the Minister of Water and Sanitation, Penny Majodina, during the proceedings. Mosala added that, despite previous commitments, including one made by the Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) in August 2024, to establish an inclusive intergovernmental structure that formally acknowledges the role of local government in the water sector, no tangible progress has been made. 

“This continued delay raises legitimate questions about the department’s willingness to uphold the spirit of cooperative governance as enshrined in the constitution. At the Indaba, SALGA restated a fundamental constitutional truth. A local government is not a subordinate entity, but an equal and autonomous sphere of government. 

“Disappointingly, Majodina’s response to this assertion dismissed both its legal basis and practical importance. Particularly troubling was the outright rejection of SALGA’s call to avoid criminalising municipalities and instead, pursue joint solutions that address systemic service delivery challenges,” she said. 

Mosala said Majodina’s endorsement of punitive legal action against municipalities not only undermines collaborative problem-solving, but also threatens to drain public resources, delay service delivery and discourage skilled professionals from entering the local government sector. She said of even greater concern was the Majodina’s reported remark, who allegedly said if it means violating the constitution, let them violate the constitution to give the people water.

“Such a statement, made by a Cabinet Minister, is deeply alarming and contradicts the core principles of constitutional democracy. The absence of a retraction or clarification reflects a disregard for the rule of law and undermines public confidence in government institutions. 

“If genuine concerns exist about constitutional limitations, the appropriate course of action is legislative reform, not unconstitutional conduct. SALGA also used the Indaba to highlight ongoing dysfunction in Water Boards, whose operational inefficiencies and unilateral tariff setting continue to erode municipal sustainability,” said Mosala. 

She said water boards often operate with limited oversight, yet their decisions have direct financial and reputational consequences for municipalities, which are ultimately held accountable by the public. Mosala said the imposition of above-inflation bulk water tariffs, without due consultation, has exacerbated household debt and deepened municipal financial distress an untenable situation for both governance and service delivery.

“SALGA calls on the Minister to reconsider and retract statements that are inconsistent with the values and obligations of our constitutional democracy. Upholding the Constitution, respecting intergovernmental partnerships and strengthening institutional accountability are not optional, they are non-negotiable foundations for sustainable water governance.

“We remain committed to being a constructive partner in addressing South Africa’s water and sanitation challenges. However, for progress to be made, we must work in good faith, within the law, and with mutual respect across all spheres of government,” she said.

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A multiple murder case against accused postponed 

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By BAKANG MOKOTO 

31 March 2025- A 27-YEAR-OLD Zimbabwean national briefly appeared in the Pretoria North Magistrate’s Court today, facing multiple charges, including six counts of murder for five men and one woman, five counts of attempted murder for four men and one woman, and two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances. It is alleged that on 22 March 2025, at approximately 3am, in the Marry Me Informal Settlement in Soshanguve, a group of 12 patrollers were sitting on the street when they were approached by five unknown men, one of whom was armed. 

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in Gauteng, Lumka Mahanjana said the men allegedly opened fire, shooting one patroller and assaulting others with rocks and wooden poles before setting them on fire. Mahanjana said four patrollers died at the scene, while others were transported to the hospital, where two more succumbed to their injuries.

“Following an intensive police investigation, the accused was arrested on 24 March 2025, in an unrelated case, where he was charged with possession of unlicensed firearms, possession of ammunition, and being in the country illegally. 

“While in custody, he was identified during an ID parade and subsequently charged with the murders, attempted murders, and robberies. The case has been postponed to 1 April 2025, to be joined with the existing matter,” she said.

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Police: “No sign of missing corpses yet” 

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Picture: Corpses in a mortuary/Generic

By BAKANG MOKOTO 

31 March 2025- The Northern Cape SAPS Provincial Crime Investigation Services (CIS) said a business robbery investigation that took place at a private mortuary in Kuruman on 17 March 2025, at approximately 1:30am, is still underway. The police said investigations indicate that unknown men entered a guard room at the funeral home and assaulted, tied up and blind folded the security guard. 

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the suspects allegedly fled with three corpses, including two men and a ten-day-old baby girl. Kock said to date, there have been no arrests and the missing corpses not recovered yet. 

“The investigating team are working tirelessly and following all leads regarding the case. Anyone with information that can assist the police in the apprehension and arrests of the perpetrators can contact Lieutenant Colonel Doggy Magugu on 082 469 0578 or contact the SAPS crime stop number 08600 10111 or alternatively utilize the Mysaps App.

“All information will be treated confidentially,” he said.

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Portfolio Committee commends DMRE plan

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By KEDIBONE MOALETSI

31 March 2025 – The Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy commended the work done by the Department of Mineral Resources and Energy on the approval of the South African Renewable Energy Master Plan, which addresses the pressing challenges related to energy supply. The approved plan represents a significant collaborative effort, involving industry stakeholders, civil society and government entities over the past five years.

The Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Electricity and Energy, Nonkosi Mvana said the plan aims to not only tackle immediate energy needs, but also promote long-term sustainable growth through the development of renewable energy sources, such as wind, solar and battery storage, while also incorporating emerging technologies, including green hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuels.

Mvana said during the presentation, committee members commended the department for the extensive work undertaken in developing the master plan.

“Members recognised the comprehensive approach taken and the commitment shown to addressing the multifaceted challenges in South Africa’s energy landscape.

“The committee expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts that have brought together various stakeholders, ensuring that the plan reflects a broad spectrum of perspectives and expertise,” she said.

Mvana further said the committee members raised pertinent questions about the plan’s implementation and enquired about measures to ensure that local businesses and communities’ benefit from renewable energy projects, emphasising the importance of job creation and skills transfer. She added that, the members questioned the department’s strategy for addressing regulatory barriers that may hinder the growth of rooftop solar installations, noting the need for streamlined processes to encourage residential participation in renewable energy.

“In response, the department highlighted that a key component of the master plan is to establish partnerships with local businesses, ensuring that they are included in the supply chains for renewable energy projects.

“The department said it is committed to implementing targeted training programmes that will equip local communities with the necessary skills to participate actively in the renewable energy sector,” said Mvana.

She said regarding regulatory barriers, the department acknowledged the challenges posed by the current registration processes and assured the committee that they are exploring legislative reforms aimed at simplifying these requirements to facilitate broader adoption of rooftop solar. Mvana said in addition, members of the committee sought clarity on the department’s approach to environmental sustainability within the master plan.

“The committee expressed concerns about the lifecycle management of renewable energy technologies, specifically regarding the decommissioning and recycling of solar panels and batteries.

“Questions were raised about the strategies in place to ensure that the shift toward renewable energy does not inadvertently lead to new environmental issues,” she said.

Mvana said the department responded by highlighting its commitment to a circular economy model, which includes comprehensive plans for the recycling and decommissioning of renewable energy technologies. She said the department said it is collaborating with industry experts to develop best practices for managing end-of-life products, ensuring that environmental considerations are integrated into every stage of the renewable energy value chain.

“Furthermore, the department said it is actively researching innovative recycling technologies that will minimise waste and maximise resource recovery. The committee welcomed the department’s initiative to actively engage with various stakeholders, including the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition and the Industrial Development Corporation, to leverage climate funding and support the development of a robust renewable energy industry,” said Mvana.

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Committee calls for a probe after a child raped at school   

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By REGINALD KANYANE

31 March 2025- In light of the recent and tragic incident involving a child who was allegedly raped at a school in Matatiele, the Chairperson of the Multi-Party Women’s Caucus, Lindelwa Dunjwa, said she is obligated to address this matter with the urgency and seriousness it deserves.

Dunjwa said the incident is not just a crime against an innocent child, but it is a stark reflection of the broader issues of Gender-Based Violence and systemic failures in protecting the most vulnerable members of society.

She further said it is disturbing to witness the impact of such violence on children, who should feel safe and secure in their educational environments. Dunjwa added that schools are meant to be places of learning, growth and safety, yet this incident reveals a tragic breach of that trust.

“I want to express my heartfelt sympathy to the affected child and her family. The mother’s courageous decision to share her experience on a local community radio station highlights the need for transparency and accountability from the authorities tasked with ensuring the safety and welfare of our children.

“I am appalled to hear about the unfair treatment and lack of care that the family has experienced from the Department of Education and law enforcement agencies. This is not an isolated incident, but it is part of a systemic failure that demands immediate attention and reform,” she said.

Dunjwa said the committee stresses that they must foster a culture, where victims are heard, supported and treated with the dignity they deserve. She said as a society, they must acknowledge the intersectionality of GBV, especially as it pertains to women and children.

“The committee is committed to advocating for comprehensive policies that address these issues, ensuring that all children, particularly girls and those with disabilities, are protected from violence and exploitation.

“We must also advocate for resources that empower schools to implement effective safety measures and support services for victims. Furthermore, the committee calls upon the government to engage with community leaders, educators and parents to develop preventive measures that can be implemented in schools across the nation,” she said.

Dunjwa said these measures should include training for teachers and staff on recognising and responding to signs of abuse, creating safe reporting mechanisms and ensuring that mental-health support is readily available for victims and their families. She said this incident should serve as a wake-up call for all of them.

“It is a reminder that we cannot afford to be complacent in our fight against GBV and the systemic issues that enable it. We must work together – government, civil society and communities – to ensure that every child can attend school without fear of violence or discrimination.

“The boy child cannot be left outside of the discussion. It is crucial to stress the importance of educating boys and young men about respect, consent and healthy relationships,” said Dunjwa.

She said education plays a pivotal role in shaping attitudes and behaviours and they must actively engage boys in conversations that challenge harmful stereotypes and norms that perpetuate violence. Dunjwa said by instilling values of empathy and equality from a young age, they can empower boys to become advocates for change within their communities.

“Creating a culture of accountability and respect among young men is essential in the fight against GBV and femicide, ensuring that future generations contribute to a society, where all individuals can live free from fear and violence,” she said.

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A toddler drowned in a canal

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Picture: The police divers retrieved the body of a toddler in a canal/Supplied

By BAKANG MOKOTO

31 March 2025- The body of a boy (3) was retrieved by Upington Search and Rescue Diving Unit SAPS in Kakamas today. This comes after a toddler allegedly drowned in a canal in Alheit on 30 March 2025, after he was last seen playing around the area.

The ZF Mgcawu District police spokesperson, Sergeant Omphile Masegela said: “An inquest docket is registered for further investigation.”

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A man nabbed with stolen bakkie and goats at the border

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The police at the border post/Supplied

By KEDIBONE MOLAETSI

31 March 2025- The Republic of South Africa (RSA) and Botswana Cross Border operations that commenced from 27 until 30 March 2025, along the Van Zylsrus, Witdraai, Gemsbokpark, Twee Rivieren, Middlepits and McCarthysrus borderline, yielded numerous successes. The police in Northern Cape said the main focus of the operations, included illegal activities in relation to cross border crimes.

The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Sergio Kock said the police ensured that there is monitoring and strict compliance of border management activities, as well as addressing crimes pertaining to trafficking of drugs, firearms, stock theft, vehicle theft and preventing the flow of undocumented immigrants. Kock said the operations were executed by members of SAPS Border Police, Kimberley and Upington VCIU, Upington Stock theft and Endangered Species as well as the JTG and ZFM Districts members respectively, under the overall command of Colonel Sibusiso Msimango, who in conjunction with SAN Parks and the Border Management Agency, participated in the disruptive actions.

“Actions and activities executed during the commencement of the operations included compliance inspections, vehicle check points (VCPs), stop and searches, foot and vehicle patrols along the border line and secondary roads, prevention of in transit crimes, illegal drugs and other commodities smuggling.

“Several vehicle check points (VCPs) were conducted and 221 vehicles and 638 persons were stopped and searched. Numerous operational successes were achieved, including compliance visits conducted by the multi-disciplinary law enforcement officials and numerous fines for contravention of the road traffic violations,” he said.

Kock further said the police also confiscated a large amount of liquor in Van Zylsrus and fined the owner R1500, for illegally dealing in alcohol. He added that a man (52), was arrested in Heuningvlei with a stolen GWM bakkie and goats’ worth approximately R40 000.

“The suspect is expected to appear in Court soon on charges of theft of motor vehicle and stock theft. The team also followed up on leads and confiscated a firearm and ammunition from a Van Zylsrus farm and opened an inquiry into the matter,” said Kock.

Meanwhile, the Northern Cape Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Koliswa Otola, indicated that the policing of cross border crimes is key as it combats cross border smuggling and other crimes. Otola said the police will continue fiercely to combat illegal and unregulated activities along the borderline and ensure that citizens and visitors are and feel safe when utilizing the border posts.

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Municipality welcomes the arrests of its former employees who are facing fraud and corruption case  

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Picture: The Bojanala Platinum District Municipality logo

By REGINALD KANYANE

31 March 2025- The Bojanala Platinum District Municipality said it has noted with keen interest the arrest of its four former employees and one service provider, by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (DPCI), commonly known as the Hawks on 17 March 2025. The municipality said these arrests were the outcome of an investigation led by the Hawks’ Serious Commercial Crime Investigation team, probing claims that they defrauded the Bojanala Platinum District Municipality of more than R25 million between December 2018 and May 2019.

The Bojanala Platinum District Municipality spokesperson, Thapelo Matebesi said among other things, investigations indicated that R2 million was transferred from the service provider’s bank account to the former CFO’s company account. Mataebesi said charges vary from fraud, money laundering, breach of the Municipal Finance Management Act and corruption.

“The arrest of two more service providers is anticipated according to the police. All defendants have been remanded in custody as the case is set to resume on 20 March 2025, for a formal bail application.

“The municipality wishes to express confidence in the law enforcement agencies which are as the result of implementation of consequence management and opening of cases with South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Hawks, as resolved by the municipal council,” he said.

Matebesi further said the municipality will continue to monitor developments, whilst praising the joint efforts of the Hawks and the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), in holding the accused accountable.

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Monna o tlhokafetse morago ga go thulwa ke sejanaga ka letsatsi la gagwe la matsalo

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Setshwantsho: Moswi, Otlotleng Semaseko/Facebook

Ka OBAKENG MAJE

31 Mopitlwe 2025- Monna wa dingwaga di le 24, o tlhokafetse morago ga go thulwa ke sejanaga fa masigo a Tshipi a ne asa kwa motseng wa Mokassa 2, gaufi le Taung. Otlotleng Semaseko yo o belegweng ka di 30 Mopitlwe 2001, o ile a thudilwa ke sejanaga ka letsatsi la gagwe la matsalo, mme a tlhokafalela kwa lefelong la tiragalo.

Sebueledi sa sepodisi, Colonel Adele Myburgh o bega fa mokgweetsi wa sejanaga se se thudileng Semaseko, a ile a le botsa phokoje morago ga tiragalo. Myburgh are sepodisi se tsweleditse dipatlisiso, mme go ile ga bonwa makgetlhe a sejanaga kwa lefelong la tiragalo.

“Ke nnete, kgetsi ya polao ntle le maikaelelo e butswe kwa seteisheneng sa sepodisi sa Taung. Moswi o ile a tlhokafalela kwa lefelo la tiragalo,” Myburgh wa tlhalosa.

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NWPTB to crack the whip against employees who took part in illegal strike

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Picture: North West MEC for DEDECT, Bitsa Lenkopane

By OBAKENG MAJE

31 March 2025- The North West MEC for Department of Economic Development, Environment, Conservation and Tourism (DEDECT), Bitsa Lenkopane, has welcomed the North West Parks and Tourism Board (NWPTB) resolutions to deal with an illegal industrial action by employees. Lenkopane said employees of the entity have, for the past month or so, embarked on an unprotected strike, which destabilised operations both in the entity and the department, traumatized other staff members and disrupted tourism business operators.

She further said the Board has briefed her that the entity will take disciplinary and or prosecution action against employees or any individual involved in this illegality. Lenkopane added that, the Board has acknowledged that protesting employees had obtained a permit to picket, but flouted the rules thereof, engaging in illegal actions that included intimidations to non-striking staff, vandalism and disruption of private business at lodges and parks.

“Lodge and Park owners have since obtained a court interdict to prevent the illegal picketing and the disruption of their businesses. The Board has directed the entity’s acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to be firm and decisive in implementing its resolutions to deal with any element of criminality and or unsanctioned absenteeism.

“The Board has also resolved that the situation be declared an emergency, to allow the deployment of extra security resources, to protect the property of the entity and its human resource capital. This is also to enable business to normally run again,” she said.

Lenkopane said she welcomes the Board’s decision to implement a salary of 4.7% increase to the non-managerial positions. She said half of the salary increase will be implemented retrospectively from March 2024 and another half in April 2025.

“We appreciate the improved financial management of both the administration and the Directors of the entity. The department acknowledges the salary disparities between employees from the merged the then Parks and Tourism Boards.

“We also call on the current NWPTB Directors and management to bring balance thereto. We unreservedly apologised to all staff members and businesses, who experienced the unruly behaviour of the illegal picketing, and assured them that parties are working together to bring the situation to normality,” said Lenkopane.

She said they highly appreciate the efforts of all who stood up and joined hands with the government to fight against the illegal strike.

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